Final Answer:
On the UH-60M, AFCS gyroscopes have been replaced with lateral, longitudinal, and vertical accelerometers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The UH-60M upgrade involves a significant shift in its Flight Control System (AFCS), transitioning from gyroscopes to accelerometers. Accelerometers measure proper acceleration, accounting for both gravity and linear motion. In contrast, gyroscopes rely on the principle of rigidity in space. This shift implies a more modern approach, enhancing the helicopter's stability and responsiveness.
Lateral, longitudinal, and vertical accelerometers correspond to the aircraft's motion along three axes: x (lateral), y (longitudinal), and z (vertical). These instruments detect acceleration changes in these respective directions, aiding the AFCS in accurately understanding and responding to the helicopter's movement. For instance, lateral accelerometers measure sideways acceleration, longitudinal measures front-to-back acceleration, and vertical measures up-and-down acceleration.
By replacing gyroscopes with accelerometers, the UH-60M's AFCS becomes more adept at registering and responding to accelerative forces, offering a more nuanced understanding of the helicopter's movement in multiple directions. This shift represents an advancement in aviation technology, enhancing the aircraft's stability, control, and overall performance, contributing significantly to its operational capabilities.